Off the ground and upside down! Sometimes, this is the best medicine for our body-mind. Read about how Stephanie Coutant-Matsen brings a connected sense of Self to teens and tweens in a safe, fun and playful smile!

As a student and teacher of Yoga for 18 years, my very favorite experience occurs when I witness teenagers come to life in aerial yoga. They light up after participating in a class using aerial hammocks, a silk swing that spins and holds them tight in topside-up and upside-down postures.​The obvious and speedy transformation in their physical, emotional and cognitive states has become my joy. Teenagers quickly shift from perceptible fear and uncertainty to ones of calm confidence. There is a weightlessness in their facial expressions, affect and physical posturing that was not present before. This all takes place within 75 minutes! Magic. So what is the trick?

Our Sixth SenseIn the ever expanding brain science field of “Sensory Processing,” we study the Proprioceptive and Vestibular systems in particular. In plain language, these systems of the body-brain are responsible for perceiving where the body is in space and/or relative to its surroundings. Through the five senses, the brain processes various stimuli of us in a context. What we feel or touch, hear, see, taste and smell gives us an abundance of information. We define who we are through being in relationship.

We can take this one step further though when we talk about developing awareness of Self. Tantric philosophy gives the map of exploring this whole-mind-body integration in the system of the koshas. Koshas or “layers of being” are spiralic sheaths of awareness and physical manifestation cloth our individual personhood. Through this framework, we can hourish subtle layers of awareness.

A sixth sense? Perhaps. And I’m not referring to the Bruce Willis thriller film!

The Magic of Aerial YogaAerial yoga truly offers us an safe and fun context to develop this “sixth sense.” The silk swings beckons tween and teens, particularly girls, by its uniqueness and challenge. It “looks cool” and answers a desire for adventure and fun. And it is! Not to mention the great Instagram photo-ops!

What ends up happening is both the mind and body are challenged yet soothed, energized yet calmed. The tactile stimulation silk swing’s massage and pressure - or hug - soothes and balances the nervous system. Research has shown that this is particularly helpful to children with Spectrum Disorders. In addition, aerial yoga creates a safe container for inversions. There are multiple documented therapeutic physical and mental benefits of inverting or going upside-down.

Add all of this to the opportunity to explore movement and creativity in a safe and supportive space with peers, smiles, music and laughter. The end product indeed feels like magic!

Towards a Sturdy Foundation of Healthy DevelopmentAerial yoga, however, is by no means a quick, “one-and-done” fix. As with anything, consistency is key. You get what you give. In this case, I would venture to say, we actually get quite a bit more out of only 75 minutes!

​Regular aerial yoga practice can help tweens and teens lay a sturdy foundation for better self-awareness and healthy development. It can improve cognitive and motor skills, as well as contribute to a better overall sense of well-being. In their sometimes very confusing and often anxiety-provoking worlds, this might be magic enough!

Stephanie Coutant-Matsen, MSW, E-RYT

---Participate in the magic of aerial yoga! Join her and fellow teens on February 17 and 19 for a 90-minute Teen Aerial Yoga "Camp-in!" Space is limited to 10 per class for safety. Register now.

​As an active member of Ebb n' Flow Yoga's community, Di has found herself on a transformative journey. Since the birth of her now 20-month old son, yoga has introduced Di to new friends, leaves her feeling confident and eases her anxiety.

Ebb n' Flow Yoga: How did yoga come into your life?

Di: After having a baby, my body wasn’t in good shape. I prefer peaceful, relaxed fitness, so I came to Ebb n’ Flow Yoga. I wanted to begin yoga so that to lose my weight.

Ebb n' Flow Yoga: How has yoga helped you?

Di: At first, I only wanted to lose weight. But now, I have found that yoga has not only helped my body but also my soul. Aerial yoga rebuilt my confidence every time I overcame challenges. I trust myself and trust that my faith will lead me to my final goal. I love yoga. It has brought a lot to my life and removes any negativity.

Ebb n' Flow Yoga: What is something that you have learned in your yoga journey?

Di: It has taught me that I can do much more than what I imagine.

Ebb n' Flow Yoga: What does yoga mean to you?

Di: A new lifestyle, close friends and a journey of self-improvement.

Ebb n' Flow Yoga: If you could give one piece of advice to a new yoga seeker, what would that be?

Di: Let go of any troubles or worries you meet during the day. Listen to your heart and trust your body. There's no judgement or competition, only you and your practice.

---With such positivity and light, Di plans to continue making yoga a part of her life and is eager to help others along the way. Thank you for sharing your inspiring story with us.

Yoga asks us inquire into our physical, mental, emotional and spiritual selves. For the preschool students attending the Fitzgerald Institute, this exploration process begins at an early age.

For six weeks, Ebb n' Flow Yoga welcomed these little butterflies into our studio for 30 minute yoga classes. Read reflections from Erin Fournier, the Fitzgerald Institute's Director of Operations and Learning Coach, as well as Kristin Hicks, who co-led the yoga program with the aid of her daughter, Jaelyn.

Ebb n' Flow Yoga: Tell us about about yourselves.

Erin: The Fitzgerald Institute launches each learner on a lifelong journey of infinite possibilities in a dynamic and diverse learning community with an innovative approach. The Fitzgerald Institute is committed to honoring the whole child; mind, body and spirit, in order for them to discover their innate gifts and use those to foster a successful life.

Yoga is a practice of inner wellness, which falls completely in line with our philosophy of raising peaceful, happy and well children physically, mentally and emotionally.

Kristin: I had no idea that I would blend my background in Early Childhood with yoga when I embarked on my yoga teacher training.

It was such a joy working with the preschool students from the Fitzgerald Institute. ​Offering yoga to this age group has been a natural transition from working with adults. Each time they entered Ebb n' Flow Yoga, they seemed to be in awe of the space and excited about the adventure that we were beginning.

Ebb n' Flow Yoga: Can you speak a bit about this six-week yoga program?

Kristin: Our time together included different themes from week-to-week that went along with a story we read and the music or nature sounds we explored. At the end of six weeks, we made dozens of shapes with our bodies, moving in postures to build balance and strength.

They enjoyed learning poses that resembled animals they knew, including downward dog, frog and ladybug. Although we added new postures each class, favorite poses were practiced more regularly. The children were thrilled to share what they remembered. I'm pretty sure the dancing, shaking, crab-walking and butterfly floating topped them all!

Ebb n' Flow Yoga: What impact did you notice yoga having on the preschool students?

Kristin: Doing breath work like "bumble bee breath" helped them focus their attention and clam their bodies following energizing movement. I was very impressed during brief meditations. The Fitzgerald Institute preschool students felt safe and comfortable enough to close their eyes and be still. What an amazing gift to be building their awareness at such a young age.

I am grateful that my five year old daughter, Jaelyn, joined us on this journey. My daughter is a dance and yogi. Having her by my side helped the preschoolers feel much more comfortable in the space. She loved being the teacher's helper and even offered posture modifications!

Erin: Ebb n' Flow Yoga not only brought out the joy in learning, but also inspired them to continue cultivating the practice of yoga. They now use the poses and breathing techniques they learned in the studio to hold a "class" of their own. They mimic Ms. Kristin and her wonderful daughter as they guide one another through yoga classes here at FitzIn.

Ebb n' Flow Yoga: Any memorable moments to share with our community?

Erin: I think the three things we will remember from Ebb n' Flow Yoga are:

The serene environment they create in the studio;

The calm yet engaging guidance of Kristin and her junior instructor; and

The use of the gong. We heard about this one for weeks!

The overall a-ha moment was just seeing how yoga can be adapted for all ages and abilities. Every student was engaged and included. Exactly as our motto at school, "Every child FitzIn."

We cannot wait to begin again in January! I hope to continue this partnership for years to come.

Do you have a Sadhana? A Sadhana is a daily practice that connects you to your soul and divine purpose. Since September 7, the Spirit Voyage has been hosting a 40-day Kundalini Meditation or Kryia (exercise set), with participants representing over 86 countries and numbering over 30,000 participants.

What is a Sadhana?A Sadhana is a daily practice that connects you to your soul and divine purpose. This practice reminds us of who we are.

A Sadhana comes at the top of our daily to-do list. This can be 1 minute or over two hours. Whatever the length, Sadhana is practiced everyday. In Kundalini yoga, we are encouraged to have a practice that we do consistently for 40 days or more, as it takes 40 days to create a new habit. This discipline and commitment has been so powerful in my life.

Joining a Global SadhanaCurrently, as part of my Sadhana, I am participating in the Spirit Voyage's Global Sadhana. The Kriya entitled, "Falling into Grace," has been a tender, powerful, and reflective experience for me. This beautiful and free offering connects people from across Mother Earth in a 40-day experience. ​By the time you read this, there will be about a week remaining. However, you can still register and continue this on your own calendar.

When you signs up, you will receive support through daily emails and online community platforms. Connect through the ethers with the power of the collective community joining you!

It has been my experience, that Kundalini yoga often surprises me by delivering what I didn't know I needed, in the most beautiful way. My wish is that you give yourself the gift of trying this Kriya and consider having a daily Sadhana, in any form, that brings you home.

Sat Nam,​Kerry

---​Join Kerry on Wednesdays at 7:30PM for Kundalini Yoga. And join her at our Open House on Saturday, November 3 at 2-3PM.

A giant hall filled with people dancing to live drumming - free flowing and un-cued, this atmosphere created a profound shift in my life. In 2012, I attended a retreat at the Kripalu Center for Yoga and Health. One of the most inspiring lessons I took away was the healing power of dance.

Their “Noon Dance” program was exhilarating. At first I felt nervous and hesitant, but those nerves were quickly replaced with wonder and excitement. This place was safe and people freely moved, without judgement, as they pleased.

I was hooked! When I returned to my program at the retreat center, the lead facilitator asked forty participants, “What will you remember from your time here?” I was surprised how many included dance in their response. “I want to dance more,” one said. Another shared, “I feel like I can better navigate my emotions while dancing.” I said, “I want to share that kind of dance with others.”

Prana Dance is BornThere are many names for this sort of free flowing movement. Yoga dance, Shakti Dance, and Dance Your Yoga are just a few. For me, Prana Dance resonates with me as a beautiful description of this artistic movement. At the heart of this movement is prana, the Sanskrit word for “life force” or “vital principle." I believe the expression of our true self through dance is an essential part of our natural being and vital to our growth and wellness. This is my forth year of holding classes and workshops for Prana Dance. While the class has evolved over the years, it always maintains the core understanding that each participant is welcome to move their body in ways that feel present, connected, honest and unscripted.

The class structure begins with a guided warm-up to lubricate the joints and gently open the body/mind. Then, we explore the six elements in nature.

The earth element usually includes drumming or. a heavy bass. Students are encouraged to shake and stomp to stimulate and move blocked energy.

Music that stirs the water element is filled with flowing, gliding movements. Here, the mind is also invited to surrender into moment-to-moment presence.

Within the fire element the musicality builds heat and evokes spontaneity.

Airhas a light, floating quality to it.

Ether conjures a devotional and deeply connected feeling tone.

We end class with a fun upbeat song and students are welcome to dance whatever exuberant style they are drawn towards. Our cool-down supports the body in a few delicious, assisted stretches before shavasana.

"The Most Joyful Way to Burn Calories"My hope for participants is that they feel free to show up as their authentic selves, and truly let go of their inhibitions. There is no right or wrong way to move. From a gentle sway to leaping, and maybe to twerking - it’s all welcome. The playlist is super fun. I choose music with motivating, positive lyrics, and often songs with non-English lyrics so that dancers are free to find their own interpretations. One of my students exclaimed, “This is the most joyful ways to burn calories!”

I completely understand feeling intimidated or unsure about trying a class like Prana Dance. I too felt intimidated and unsure years ago. With that said, I have had so much positive feedback from participants, that I am confident in saying this class is 100 percent worth trying out, regardless of the uncertainty. Prana Dance safety opens space to participants to step outside of his or her comfort zone. It frees us from the confines of social norms and celebrates all that makes you, YOU!​There was a time in my life when I believed the only way I could be that carefree and daring is when I was intoxicated. I am so glad I was able to let go of that belief and allow my true self to shine. I’m really looking forward to sharing this unique experience with others. I hope you can feel this kind of confidence and connection as well. Join me as we dance our way into joy!

This summer, Algonquin Football Boosters piloted yoga classes as part of their summer camp. Under the instruction of Bianca and Kristin and supported by volunteers from our Embodyoga teacher training program, Ebb n' Flow Yoga held three 30-min yoga sessions in their summer camp.

Head coach Mark took time to share his thoughts on this expansion of Algonquin's football program.

Ebb n’ Flow Yoga: Talk about Algonquin's football program.Mark: The Algonquin football program consists of three teams - freshman, JV and Varsity. This year, we have approximately 85 student-athletes involved from Grades 9-12.

Our main goal is to provide a safe and fun experience to anyone in the school that wishes to participate in football. We work on fundamentals, scheme, and also other aspects of life that do not deal with football. We incorporate year round strength and conditioning training, and thanks to you guys yoga!

Part of this experience is to have a positive impact on the student-athlete as coaches, while also teaching the game.We believe that football is an extension of the classroom and have a priority of academic excellence, and also believe that football teaches numerous life lessons. These life lessons include leadership, accountability, teamwork, effort, consistency, and many more!

Ebb n’ Flow Yoga: What was the inspiration having yoga sessions during this year’s summer camp?Mark: We wanted to supplement on what we already do by providing something different for the student-athletes. Many strength and conditioning programs are monotonous year in and year out. By adding yoga, the student-athletes receive a well-rounded program that includes flexibility, strength, recovery and injury reduction.

Ebb n’ Flow Yoga: How do you see yoga supporting the football program?Mark: We greatly appreciate the time the instructors gave to work with out student-athletes this summer. We believe it had a positive impact on the kids and program. The kids seemed to have enjoyed the experience!

On the field we have already seen a reduced injury rate (knock on wood!). The performance and flexibility of the kids also seems to have improved. Off the field, we definitely would love to continue to use yoga both during the season and off-season periods.

Ebb n’ Flow Yoga: What was one takeaway you had during the summer yoga sessions?Mark: I think the major take away was seeing the kids have fun with it. Many of them had not ever tried yoga and/or did not believe that they could do many of the poses throughout the sessions. I think once they got comfortable doing it they also saw the benefits and saw their own improvements throughout the summer. A fun experience is one of our priorities as a team, and the kids definitely had fun with yoga!

Ebb n’ Flow Yoga: Any advice, especially for student athletes, given your perspective on football and yoga?Mark: There is a stigma that men don’t do yoga. I think this experience showed that there are great benefits for more men to get involved in this practice. In addition, some of the top college and pro teams/athletes incorporate yoga into their routines. My advice would be to have an open mind going into it. Enjoy the experience! You are definitely going to see some great results from participating in yoga!

---It was so cool to witness yoga move among and within Algonquin's football student-athletes. They authentically fluctuated between trying and not trying, disbelief and amazement, hilarious laughter and incredible single-pointed focus. Ebb n' Flow Yoga is honored to have this opportunity to share what we love with this part of Algonquin. And we could not be more thrilled to continue the partnership. It seems that when football meets yoga, both are better for it. With gratitude, Joy